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Kentucky · Fishing
Barlow, Kentucky sits in Ballard County in the far western corner of the state, and the fishing here is straightforward lake and pond fishing — no whitewater, no mountain trails to hike in, just quiet freshwater spots within easy reach of town.
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Barlow, Kentucky sits in Ballard County in the far western corner of the state, and the fishing here is straightforward lake and pond fishing — no whitewater, no mountain trails to hike in, just quiet freshwater spots within easy reach of town. The four waters on the Roamze list cover the range you'd expect in this part of western Kentucky: Buck Lake, Oak Lake, Long Pond, and Brushy Pond. These are the kinds of places where you can show up with a rod, a bucket of crickets or a handful of soft plastics, and spend a few productive hours without a crowd. Bass and bluegill are the bread-and-butter species in still waters like these across the region, and catfish are a reasonable bet in the warmer months. None of these waters carry a gold-medal or wild-trout designation, so manage expectations accordingly — this is relaxed, accessible fishing rather than a destination trophy hunt. That said, smaller ponds and lakes in Kentucky's western lowlands can fish surprisingly well, especially in spring and early fall when water temperatures are in the right range. If you're driving in from out of town, Barlow is a small community, so plan to bring your own gear and supplies rather than counting on local tackle shops nearby.
These are typical western Kentucky still-water fisheries, so largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish are the most likely catches. Crappie are also common in lakes and ponds of this type across Ballard County, particularly around any available structure or brush.
Spring (late March through May) is generally the most productive window, when bass move shallow to spawn and bluegill are actively feeding. Early fall, from September into October, is a close second as water temperatures drop and fish feed aggressively before winter. Summer fishing can still be good, but you'll want to be on the water early morning or in the evening to avoid the midday heat slowdown.
Brushy Pond
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area (Alexander County)
~25 min drive
Moderate
Lincoln Memorial
~49 min drive
A worthwhile stop near IL.
Buck Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Long Pond
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Oak Lake
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Goose Pond
~12 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Turner Lake
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Crooked Lake
~26 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Black Lake
~31 min drive
A worthwhile stop near KY.
Bratcher Lake
~35 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Ricefield Pond
~39 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Yes, a valid Kentucky fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older fishing any of these waters. You can purchase one online through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website or at authorized retailers. Check the KDFWR site for current fees and any county-specific regulations before your trip.
A medium-light to medium spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations across these lakes and ponds. For bass, soft plastic worms, small crankbaits, and spinnerbaits all work well. For bluegill and crappie, a simple bobber rig with a small hook and live crickets or wax worms is hard to beat. If you're targeting catfish, cut bait or stink bait on a bottom rig in the evening is a reliable approach.
Access details can vary for smaller ponds and lakes like these, and it's worth confirming access status before you make the drive. Brushy Pond and Long Pond, given their size, are likely bank-fishing spots rather than boat-launch destinations. For Buck Lake and Oak Lake, check current access information through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources or local county resources, as conditions and permissions can change.
